Charles Mingus: Epitaph 1990
Experience the monumental *Charles Mingus: Epitaph* (1990), a spellbinding documentary capturing the world-premiere performance of jazz legend Charles Mingus's unfinished magnum opus, "Epitaph," brought to life by conductor Gunther Schuller and a ste...
Director: Humphrey Burton
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *Charles Mingus: Epitaph* (1990) about?
*Charles Mingus: Epitaph* documents the landmark 1989 world-premiere performance of Charles Mingus's sprawling, unfinished jazz composition "Epitaph," performed by 30 acclaimed musicians at Lincoln Center. The film captures the emotional and musical weight of the piece, which was only discovered after Mingus's death, offering a rare glimpse into his creative genius and the collaborative energy of the performance.
Who directed *Charles Mingus: Epitaph*?
The documentary was directed by Humphrey Burton, a renowned conductor and filmmaker known for his work in classical and jazz music.
Who stars in *Charles Mingus: Epitaph*?
The film features a powerhouse ensemble including Charles Mingus, Gunther Schuller, Wynton Marsalis, Randy Brecker, Lew Soloff, and Jack Walrath, among other jazz legends.
Is *Charles Mingus: Epitaph* (1990) worth watching?
Absolutely—if you appreciate jazz, historical performances, or cinematic tributes to musical genius, this film is a must-watch. Its two-hour runtime is packed with virtuosity, emotional depth, and a story of artistic resurrection that lingers long after the final note. Even without an IMDb rating, its cultural significance speaks volumes.
How long is *Charles Mingus: Epitaph*?
The runtime is 131 minutes, or roughly 2 hours and 11 minutes.
About Charles Mingus: Epitaph (1990) — Witness the world-premiere of a jazz legend's unfinished masterpiece
Experience the monumental *Charles Mingus: Epitaph* (1990), a spellbinding documentary capturing the world-premiere performance of jazz legend Charles Mingus's unfinished magnum opus, "Epitaph," brought to life by conductor Gunther Schuller and a stellar 30-piece orchestra at Lincoln Center's Alice Tully Hall. Unearthed posthumously in 1979, the sprawling, two-hour-plus composition stands as a testament to Mingus's genius, blending raw emotion, intricate harmonies, and revolutionary jazz innovation. The film pulses with the intensity of a cultural milestone, featuring luminaries like Wynton Marsalis, Randy Brecker, and Lew Soloff, whose virtuosity elevates the score into a transcendent listening experience. Set against the grandeur of Lincoln Center, the event radiates a sense of historical significance, offering both jazz aficionados and newcomers a rare glimpse into a masterpiece that nearly vanished into obscurity.
Directed by Humphrey Burton, this cinematic tribute transforms Mingus's unfinished vision into a visceral performance that resonates with themes of legacy, artistic struggle, and the power of collective creativity. The documentary's atmosphere crackles with the energy of a once-in-a-lifetime collaboration, where every note feels like a defiant celebration of jazz's unbridled spirit. Whether you're drawn to the film for its musical brilliance or its backstory of rediscovery, *Charles Mingus: Epitaph* delivers an unforgettable journey into the heart of jazz history.